Liverpool will almost certainly challenge the eight-match ban given to Luis Suarez after the striker was found guilty of racially abusing United’s Patrice Evra. The Football Association imposed the punishment – suspended for 14 days pending any appeal – and a £40,000 fine after a ruling by an independent regulatory commission.

FLASHPOINT Liverpool’s Luis Suarez tussles for possession with Patrice Evra of United (left) during the game at Anfield in October

Liverpool will almost certainly challenge the eight-match ban given to Luis Suarez after the striker was found guilty of racially abusing United’s Patrice Evra.

The Football Association imposed the punishment – suspended for 14 days pending any appeal – and a £40,000 fine after a ruling by an independent regulatory commission.

While United remained tight-lipped last night, arch-rivals Liverpool, who have steadfastly supported the Uruguay international since the incident occurred in mid-October, issued a strongly-worded response, stressing they do not believe the player is a racist.

The club also said they were "looking forward to the publication of the commission’s judgment" and have also questioned the credibility of Reds defender Evra’s evidence.

A statement read: "Liverpool Football Club is very surprised and disappointed with the decision of the Football Association Commission to find Luis Suarez guilty of the charges against him.

"We will study the detailed reasons of the commission once they become available but reserve our right to appeal or take any other course of action we feel appropriate with regards to this situation.

"We find it extraordinary that Luis can be found guilty on the word of Patrice Evra alone when no-one else on the field of play – including Evra’s own Manchester United team-mates and all the match officials – heard the alleged conversation between the two players in a crowded Kop goalmouth while a corner kick was about to be taken.

"It is our strong held belief, having gone over the facts of the case, that Luis Suarez did not commit any racist act.

"It is key to note that Patrice Evra himself in his written statement in this case said ‘I don’t think Luis Suarez is racist’. The FA in their opening remarks accepted that Luis Suarez was not racist.

"It is also our opinion that the accusation by this particular player (Evra) was not credible – certainly no more credible than his prior unfounded accusations."

The mention of "prior unfounded accusations" is a reference to racism allegations Evra made against Chelsea groundsman Sam Bethell in 2008 which were not proven.

Liverpool made a staunch defence of their stance on racism, which the club "considers in any form to be unacceptable – without compromise".

"The club takes extremely seriously the fight against all forms of discrimination and has a long and successful track record in work relating to anti-racist activity and social inclusion," said the statement.

"We remain committed to this ideal and equality for all, irrespective of a person’s background.

"Luis himself is of a mixed race family background as his grandfather was black. He has been personally involved since the 2010 World Cup in a charitable project which uses sport to encourage solidarity amongst people of different backgrounds."

Suarez’s defence was based on claims that he was unaware language that is acceptable in Uruguay is viewed as racist in Europe.

Liverpool also accused the FA of being intent on bringing charges before they had even spoken to Suarez.

"It seems incredible to us that a player of mixed heritage should be accused and found guilty in the way he has based on the evidence presented," the club statement continued.

"We do not recognise the way in which Luis Suarez has been characterised.

"It appears to us that the FA were determined to bring charges against Luis Suarez, even before interviewing him at the beginning of November."

Suarez himself admitted it had been a tough day, writing on Twitter: "Today is a very difficult and painful day for both me and my family. Thanks for all the support, I’ll keep working."

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